Culture Gabfest

This discussion features June Thomas, an author and critic known for her insightful takes on film and theater, alongside Mark Harris, a writer and Hollywood commentator. They dive deep into the implications of Warner Bros. Discovery's acquisition, exploring the significant bidding war between Netflix and Paramount. June highlights the staggering financial scales in Hollywood, while Mark warns against potential fallout from a Paramount takeover. They also reflect on the broader context of a changing film industry and what it means for cinema's future.

Jamelle Bouie, an insightful opinion columnist, joins the hosts for a lively discussion that spans film and history. They dissect Rian Johnson's latest mystery, celebrated for its unique portrayal of faith through Josh O'Connor's character. The conversation shifts to Ken Burns' ambitious documentary on The American Revolution, praised for its intricate narrative and historical critique. Finally, they tackle the debate on America’s intelligence decline, exploring cultural impacts and educational challenges, making for an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue.

Guest host Dan Kois, a freelance writer and cultural commentator, joins the conversation about the complexities of adaptations and musical storytelling. They dive into the darker themes in "Wicked for Good," praising Ariana Grande's powerful performance while debating the divide's impact. The discussion shifts to "Train Dreams,' exploring its visual beauty and the nuances lost in adaptation. Lastly, they reflect on the intimate escape of "Peter Hujar’s Day," highlighting its portrayal of art and friendship. Tune in for a rich cultural journey!

Get ready for a wild ride through cultural critiques! The discussion kicks off with Edgar Wright's take on The Running Man, tackling themes of authoritarianism and style versus substance. Next, the hosts examine James A. Garfield's intriguing yet often overlooked presidency in Netflix's Death By Lightning, highlighting compelling performances and historical context. Lastly, they dive into Rosalía's ambitious new album, Lux, exploring its operatic flair and emotional depth. A blend of humor and insight makes this a must-listen!

Hark, the holiday season is upon us—and with it the most solemn of festive traditions: a gift guide! In this video and podcast special, Slate hosts Dana Stevens, Chris Molanphy, and Willa Paskin beam-in from their collective hearths to deliver unto the internet their favorite gifts for culture lovers this holiday. In addition to sharing gifts, they also discuss the cultural artifact that is the “holiday gift guide,” and its history going back to the early 20th century, up to the modern day. See the entirety of the 1910 gift guide Our Special Holiday Gift-Book from Greenhut-Siegel Cooper, and Esquire’s ultra-mod gift guide from 1961. Check out our gift recommendations below: Dana Stevens’ Cozy Movie Night-In:  The Salbree Collapsible Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper & Amish Country Popcorn L'agraty Chunky Knit Blanket Throw The Adventures of Antoine Doinel, The Criterion Collection Box SetChris Molanphy’s Hit Parade Collection:  The Beatles’ Revolver CD Box Set Mad Men Blu-Ray Box Set  Can't Slow Down: How 1984 Became Pop's Blockbuster Year, by Michaelangelo MatosWilla Paskin’s Fruit-Themed Trompe-l'œil Housewares: Cantaloupe-shaped bowls in the style of Bordallo Pinheiro 4-Pack Orange-Shaped Candle Stocking Stuffer Cherry-Shaped Toilet Brush Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the surreal world of Vince Gilligan's intriguing new series, where a woman battles societal bliss in a world of mind-controlling joy. Unpack Joachim Trier's touching family drama, blending humor and nostalgia, featuring standout performances. The discussion also tackles the alarming stats on female directors since #MeToo, revealing industry gatekeeping and the broader implications for creativity. Plus, fun endorsements and a bonus dive into the culture of parties make for an engaging listen!

The hosts dive into Richard Linklater's compelling film about Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart, spotlighting Ethan Hawke's captivating transformation. They explore the new conspiracy series featuring Emma Thompson, sharing polarized reactions to its plot and tone. The discussion shifts to Lily Allen's powerful album, framed as a confessional masterpiece revealing raw emotions about her tumultuous marriage. With standout tracks and vivid storytelling, the record's blend of pop and personal insight leaves a lasting impact.

Sam Adams, a film critic for Slate, and Amy Nicholson from the Los Angeles Times delve into a gripping cinematic discussion. They dissect Kathryn Bigelow’s tense nuclear thriller, A House of Dynamite, debating its suspense and technical craft. Next, they explore Nia DaCosta’s fresh take on Ibsen’s Hedda with Tessa Thompson's captivating performance. Finally, they analyze the chilling documentary The Perfect Neighbor, revealing the emotional weight of police bodycam footage in a community tragedy.

This is a special preview of this week's Slate Plus episode. To get the full episode, another one like it every single week, and unlimited reading on Slate.com, subscribe to slate plus at Slate.com/cultureplus and help us keep the lights on. When you have Jad Abumrad in the studio, you don’t let him leave without squeezing as much quality audio from him as possible. So, inspired by Jad’s own natural curiosity, we dedicated our bonus episode this week to responding to one of the foremost practitioners of American radio’s questions about our little ol’ show. What follows is a wide-ranging conversation between Julia, Dana, Steve, and Jad about the current cultural landscape, the role of criticism, and the vital need for art in a time of inhumane political realities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s show, Dana, Steve, and Julia step into the gothic, visually rich world of Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. It’s been years in the making, gorgeously rendered, and stars the always compelling Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi, but it’s up for debate if something like a soul emerges from del Toro’s mad machinations.Next, author and journalist Stefan Fatsis joins the logophilic panel to talk about the uncertain fate of dictionaries as chronicled in his new book Unabridged: The Thrill of (and Threat To) the Modern Dictionary. Finally, the hosts talk about the sonically and narratively layered new podcast Fela Kuti: Fear No Man about the legendary Nigerian musician and activist— its acclaimed producer Jad Abumrad joins to discuss. In an exclusive Slate Plus bonus episode, Jad sticks around to pepper the Gabfesters with questions about how we make our own podcast week after week.Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com. Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch.EndorsementsSteve: Jad Abumrad's new podcast Fela Kuti: Fear No Man (yes, the one covered in this very episode— it's that good). Also, Ben Lerner’s essay “Cardiography” in the New York Review of Books.Jad: The dark Macedonian fantasy You Won’t Be Alone. Julia: “Tense Present: Democracy, English, and the Wars over Usage,” David Foster Wallace's classic essay originally published in Harpers.Dana: Adam Gopnik's recent piece "What Do We Want from Our Child Stars?" in The New Yorker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.